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Technology is Not the Answer

Technology is not the answer. That may sound like a contradictory statement coming from a mobile software company, but I believe it is true.

In speaking with various companies and seeking to keep a pulse on the industry, there seems to be this naive hope that technology can become the savior for a complex mess of operational issues. Hoping that a piece of technology will magically solve the multi-layered challenges of mobile time management, asset management, work order management, etc, etc, etc…is similar to going to the doctor for the pain from a gushing head wound and receiving a shot of morphine. Pain gone, problem solved. The prescription is an oversimplified solution to a very complex problem. Obviously, the immediate symtoms have been dealt with, but in the long-term, the causes of pain will eventually take over.

Perhaps a better postion is that technology must be a part of the solution rather than the answer. Mobile technology is only as good as the company culture and the established (or adopted) process in place. I think that is why Jay Steinfeld’s recent article at Inc.com grabbed my attention and resonated with me. As the CEO of one of the pioneer internet-driven companies, he points out 4 ways that technology can actually slow a company down and become detrimental to innovative company culture. For any company looking to implement mobile technology, his suggestions are certainly applicable: